The next morning, Mrs. Faulkner sat the boys down for breakfast and delivered an unexpected announcement. "After discussing it with Maria, we've decided that you two will be homeschooled from now on."
Jake nearly choked on his orange juice. "Wait, what? Homeschool?"
Alex looked equally shocked. "Why?"
Mrs. Faulkner sighed. "We think itâs for the best. It will give you both more structure, more accountability, and fewer distractions. Youâll still get a full education, but weâre bringing in a tutor to guide your studies."
Jake slumped in his chair. "But what about our friends?"
"Youâll still see them," she assured him. "This isnât a punishment. Itâs a new approach. Youâll have a babysitter during the day while Iâm at work, and your teacher will ensure you stay on track with your studies."
Alex looked skeptical. "A babysitter? Really?"
Mrs. Faulkner gave him a knowing look. "Considering recent events, I think itâs necessary."
The boys exchanged uneasy glances. Their lives were about to change in a big way, and neither of them was sure how they felt about it.
She then added, "Technically, your vacation isnât over yet. Since you both did as you were told during your punishment, Iâll give you a few more days before we start your homeschooling routine. Enjoy them while you can."
Jake and Alex let out a small sigh of relief, knowing they had a little more time before their new reality set in.
"Oh, and one more thing," Mrs. Faulkner said, setting her coffee cup down. "Alex, your mom got a big promotion. The only problem is⦠she has to work overseas."
Alexâs heart sank. "Wait⦠what does that mean?"
Mrs. Faulkner reached over and placed a reassuring hand on his. "It means youâre going to be living here permanently. Your mom loves you very much, but this is an opportunity she canât pass up."
Alex was silent for a moment, absorbing the news. He had suspected something was going on, but he hadnât expected this. Finally, he took a deep breath and nodded. "Okay."
"Weâll make sure you feel at home here," Mrs. Faulkner promised. "And youâll still be able to talk to your mom as often as you want."
Alex forced a small smile. "Thanks."
Mrs. Faulkner patted his hand and stood up. "Alright, enjoy your free days. Because once we start, I expect you both to work hard."
Jake and Alex exchanged glancesâthis was going to be an adjustment, but at least they had each other.
Later that evening, as they sat watching Brooklyn 99, Mrs. Faulkner walked in, holding a stack of papers. "Alex, since youâre going to be living with us now, I need you to sign these."
Alex furrowed his brow. "What are they?"
She smiled warmly. "Adoption papers. Your mom will always be your mom, but this is for insurance purposes. And if you want, you can even call me âMomâ too."
Alex hesitated for a moment before breaking into a smile. "I think Iâd like that."
Jake grinned. "Looks like Iâve got a brother now."
Alex laughed. "Yeah, I guess you do."